Determining financial liability after an Uber accident in Los Angeles can feel complicated. Apart from the rideshare driver, you may wonder, “Can I file against Uber? What happens if another motorist is involved?”
If you’ve been involved in an accident as an Uber passenger or a rideshare driver, understanding who’s responsible for covering damages is the key to having the right to compensation. So, in this article, you will learn about liability in Uber accidents and what to do to protect your rights in such cases.
When Can I Seek Compensation for the Damages of an Uber Accident?
If someone else’s careless actions caused a crash that left you injured, you have the right to hold them accountable. But to seek justice and secure the compensation you deserve, it’s crucial to prove that their negligence directly caused the accident.
What Constitutes Negligence in a Personal Injury Case?
Every driver has a responsibility to keep others safe on the road. When someone chooses to ignore that responsibility, whether by texting, speeding, or driving recklessly, their actions are considered negligence.
Moreover, if their negligence caused your injuries, they should be held responsible for the pain and hardship they’ve caused you.
Building Your Case: Proving Negligence
To fight for the justice and compensation you’re entitled to, your legal team must prove four essential elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care – The other driver had a legal responsibility to drive safely and follow traffic laws.
- Breach of Duty – They failed this responsibility through reckless or dangerous actions, like texting while driving.
- Causation – Their behavior directly resulted in the crash that caused your injuries.
- Damages – You suffered real harm, such as physical injuries, medical bills, lost income, or emotional distress.
Although these steps may seem simple, proving negligence can be difficult, especially when you’re recovering from an injury and unable to gather evidence yourself.
That’s where hiring an experienced Los Angeles Uber accident lawyer can be beneficial. Speaking with an uber accident attorney early helps preserve evidence and claim value. They’ll take the pressure off you by collecting evidence, building a strong case, and ensuring your voice is heard.
What Compensation Can I Claim After an Uber Accident in Los Angeles?
You might think your claim only covers medical bills or car repairs, but the effects of an accident often go much deeper. A skilled Los Angeles rideshare accident attorney can review your case and pursue all possible types of compensation, including:
Economic Damages
These are financial losses caused by the accident, such as:
- Medical expenses (emergency care, ongoing treatment, or physical therapy)
- Costs for medical devices or in-home care
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Lost wages during recovery
- Loss of future income if you can’t return to work
Non-Economic Damages
These cover emotional and psychological impacts, including:
- Pain and suffering
- Anxiety, depression, or PTSD
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship or intimacy
- Emotional trauma affecting daily life
Punitive Damages
In rare cases, courts may award punitive damages if the at-fault party acted with extreme negligence. These damages punish wrongdoing and deter similar behavior.
While economic damages like medical bills are straightforward to calculate, non-economic damages, such as emotional suffering, are more complex. This is where an experienced attorney is essential. They can assess your losses, negotiate with insurers, and handle legal details, allowing you to focus on recovery.
Who Is Liable for the Uber Accident?
Several entities can be liable for the Uber accident, depending on how the crash happened and what caused it. Generally, the following entities can be responsible.
The Rideshare Driver Is at Fault
If an Uber driver hits you due to their negligence, such as distracted driving or driving under the influence, they can be held liable for covering your damages.
However, it’s important to note that if the driver was not actively using the app during the accident and was driving for personal reasons, the rideshare company’s insurance policy does not apply. In such cases, the driver’s personal auto insurance would be responsible for covering any injuries or damages caused by the collision.
It’s also essential to recognize that road safety is a shared responsibility. All road users, including you, have a duty to prioritize one another’s safety. If your own actions, such as distracted walking, contributed to the accident, you could share some of the responsibility. While you can still file a claim for compensation, the amount you receive may be reduced based on your level of fault in the incident.
Another Driver Caused the Accident
If you’re in an Uber and another driver causes the accident, the other driver’s insurance is typically responsible for covering your injuries and related expenses. Remember that California law holds negligent drivers responsible for the damages, meaning if the other motorist is at fault, you can’t file against the Uber driver or company.
However, situations aren’t always that straightforward. What happens if the other driver flees the scene, making it a hit-and-run, or they don’t have sufficient insurance to cover your damages? That’s where Uber steps in with an additional layer of protection.
Uber provides uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, which is designed to ensure you’re not left with the financial burden in these tricky situations. This coverage kicks in if:
- The at-fault driver is unknown
- They lack insurance
- They don’t have enough coverage
It’s a safety net that ensures your medical expenses, lost wages, and even pain and suffering are taken care of, giving you peace of mind while using rideshare services. This policy highlights Uber’s commitment to passenger safety and ensures you’re protected no matter the circumstances surrounding an accident.
What About Shared Responsibility?
Uber accidents often involve more than one person at fault. For example, if an Uber driver was speeding and another driver ran a red light, both could share responsibility for the crash.
In California, comparative fault laws mean each person pays for damages based on how much they were at fault. So, if you are a pedestrian involved in a crash with a negligent Uber driver and another motorist, you can file two personal injury cases against both simultaneously.
In this case:
- If the Uber driver is deemed 40% liable, they must compensate 40% of the damages.
- If the other motorist is 60% responsible, they should provide 60% compensation.
What Happens If I Am Partially At Fault?
California follows a pure comparative fault system, which means you can still recover damages even if you are partially responsible for an accident. However, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your level of fault.
For example, if you are deemed 20% at fault, you would still be eligible to recover 80% of your total damages.
Keep in mind, insurance companies often attempt to overstate your level of fault to minimize their payout. The good news is that experienced Los Angeles Uber accident attorneys, like us, are here to challenge these tactics, ensuring you aren’t unfairly blamed or denied the settlement you deserve. We’ll review your case to figure out who’s responsible and help you get the most compensation possible.
How Much Liability Insurance Does a Ride-Sharing Driver Have?
In California, all drivers are legally required to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. The coverage limits depend on how the vehicle is used, whether for personal or business purposes. Commercial vehicles or common carriers typically have higher liability requirements compared to personal vehicles.
For private passenger vehicles, the minimum liability insurance requirements are as follows:
- $30,000 to cover damages for injury or death to a single person in a single accident,
- $60,000 to cover damages for injuries or deaths to multiple people in a single accident, and
- $15,000 to cover property damage, including damage to other vehicles or property.
These regulations ensure a baseline level of financial protection in the event of an accident.
Can I File a Claim Against Uber After a Crash?
If the driver involved in the accident was logged into the Uber app, whether they were:
- Waiting to receive a ride request,
- En route to pick up a passenger, or
- Actively transporting a passenger to their destination,
Then Uber’s insurance policy should apply. This means you can file a claim against the company to recover damages.
How Uber’s Insurance Coverage Works
Rideshare companies like Uber provide insurance coverage for accidents, but the level of coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the incident. Here’s a concise breakdown of Uber’s Insurance Coverage:
- Offline (App turned off):
The driver’s personal auto insurance is applicable.
- Period 1 (App on, no ride accepted yet):
Uber offers the following coverage:
- $50,000 for bodily injury per person
- $100,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $30,000 for property damage
- $200,000 in supplemental liability insurance
- Periods 2 & 3 (Ride accepted or actively transporting passengers):
Uber provides:
- $1 million in commercial auto insurance
- $1 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
Understanding these distinctions can help you manage the claims process and determine whether Uber’s coverage applies to your situation. A seasoned Los Angeles Uber accident lawyer can confirm which policy applies and handle the claim for you.
Can I Sue as a Passenger if My Rideshare Driver Gets into an Accident?
You’re typically in a strong legal position as a rideshare passenger injured in an accident. Whether the crash was caused by your rideshare driver or another motorist, there’s usually insurance coverage to address your claim.
- If your rideshare driver is at fault, the rideshare company’s insurance policy typically covers your damages.
- If another driver caused the accident, their insurance is generally responsible for your injuries.
- If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, the rideshare company’s insurance often steps in to cover your losses.
However, securing fair compensation isn’t always straightforward. Having the right legal advocate can make all the difference in ensuring you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
What If I Wasn’t Wearing a Seatbelt at the Time of the Accident?
If you weren’t wearing a seatbelt when the crash happened, you can still file a personal injury claim in California, but your compensation may be reduced.
Note that California follows a “pure comparative negligence” system. That means:
- Even if you were partially at fault (like not wearing a seatbelt), you can still recover damages.
- If your total damages are $100,000 but the court says you were 20% at fault for not wearing a seatbelt, you could still recover $80,000.
Unfortunately, in such situations, insurance adjusters may try to:
Blame your injuries on your lack of seatbelt use, not the other driver’s negligence.
Offer a lower settlement based on the assumption that your injuries were “worse than they should have been.”
But remember: They still have to prove that your lack of a seatbelt directly caused or worsened your injuries. That’s not always easy.
So, don’t assume you’re out of options. Many accident victims still recover substantial compensation, even without a seatbelt. Instead, talk to a Los Angeles Uber accident lawyer who can challenge unfair blame, gather medical and accident evidence, and make sure your rights are protected throughout the process.
What Happens if Damages Exceed Uber’s Insurance Limits?
If damages go beyond the insurance coverage provided by Uber, victims may need to consider other ways to recover compensation. Here are some options to explore:
- Seeking compensation from the personal assets of the at-fault party: If the driver or another party is found responsible for the accident, their personal assets could potentially be pursued in a lawsuit to cover the remaining damages. However, this can be a lengthy and complex process.
- Utilizing their own underinsured motorist coverage: If you have underinsured motorist coverage as part of your own auto insurance policy, it can help cover the gap when the responsible party’s insurance is insufficient. This option often provides a faster resolution, but it depends on your policy limits.
- Investigating other potentially liable parties: Other entities, such as vehicle manufacturers (in cases of defective vehicle parts) or road maintenance agencies (if poor road conditions contributed to the accident), may share liability. Pursuing these parties requires a thorough investigation and legal expertise.
- Accepting proportionally reduced compensation in certain cases: If limited funds are available, victims may only receive a portion of the total compensation they are owed. This usually happens when multiple victims are involved and the available insurance limits are divided among them.
These alternatives highlight the importance of identifying all potential sources of compensation to secure fair recovery for damages and losses.
Does Personal Health Insurance Cover Injuries from an Uber Accident?
In most cases, yes. Your personal health insurance will cover medical treatment for injuries sustained in an Uber accident, just as it would for other types of injuries. However, there are several important factors to keep in mind:
- Reimbursement to Your Health Insurer (Subrogation): If you receive a settlement from the Uber driver, their insurance, or another at-fault party, your health insurance provider may require reimbursement for any medical expenses they initially covered. This process, known as subrogation, is common in accident-related claims. Review your health insurance policy carefully to understand how subrogation applies in your situation.
- Deductibles and Out-of-Pocket Costs: Even though your health insurance may cover your medical expenses, you’ll still be responsible for any deductibles, co-pays, or out-of-pocket costs outlined in your policy. Depending on the severity of your injuries and the treatments required, these costs could add up significantly.
- Network Limitations: Your health insurance may restrict you to a specific network of healthcare providers. Seeking treatment outside this network could lead to reduced coverage or outright denial, leaving you responsible for a larger share of the costs.
- Non-Medical Damages Are Not Covered: Health insurance only applies to medical expenses. It does not cover non-medical damages such as pain and suffering, lost wages, or emotional distress. For compensation related to these damages, you’ll need to pursue a claim against the responsible party’s insurance or seek a legal settlement.
While health insurance can provide immediate coverage for medical expenses after an Uber accident, it’s not a comprehensive solution. To manage costs effectively and ensure full compensation for your injuries, it’s crucial to understand your health insurance policy, go through subrogation requirements, and coordinate with other sources of compensation.
How Long Do You Have to File an Uber Accident Claim in Los Angeles?
In California, the law allows you up to two years from the date of an accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, as outlined in California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1.
However, if your claim involves a government entity, such as accidents caused by hazardous road conditions or faulty traffic signals, the deadline is much shorter. In these cases, you must file your claim within six months.
Missing these critical deadlines can forfeit your right to seek compensation. Acting promptly not only safeguards your legal rights but also strengthens your case by preserving evidence and witness credibility. Don’t wait. Take the necessary steps today to protect your future.
What to Do After an Uber Crash in Los Angeles
If you’ve been in a rideshare accident, follow these steps to protect your rights and streamline the claims process:
1.Notify the authorities
If there are injuries or significant damage, call the Los Angeles police right away. An official report is key for future claims.
2. Ensure safety
Check for injuries and, if possible, move anyone at risk to a safe spot.
3. Document everything
Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and the accident scene. Collect contact info from everyone involved, including witnesses.
4. Report the accident to your insurance
Notify your insurer within 24 hours. They’ll assist with the necessary paperwork, including forms required by the DMV.
5. Seek medical attention
Even if you feel fine, see a doctor to rule out hidden injuries. Save all medical records and bills for your claim.
6. Consult a rideshare accident lawyer
A lawyer can help you calculate damages, guide you through the claims process, and secure fair compensation.
By following these steps, you’ll be better prepared to handle a rideshare accident and protect your legal and financial interests.
Next Steps to Protect Yourself: Contact a Los Angeles Uber Accident Attorney
If you’ve been in a rideshare accident, don’t wait to take action. Contact an experienced Uber accident lawyer in Los Angeles, CA, today. Here’s how we can help:
- Free Legal Consultation: We’ll assess your case, explain your rights, and answer any questions you may have, so you feel confident moving forward with your claim.
- No Win, No Fee Guarantee: You won’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case. If we don’t secure compensation for you, you owe nothing.
- Aggressive Representation: Our team fights relentlessly to ensure you get the justice and financial coverage you deserve, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Expertise in Rideshare Laws: Rideshare accidents involve unique legal complexities. We’re experienced in handling cases against Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies.
- Comprehensive Case Management: From dealing with insurance companies to gathering evidence and negotiating settlements, we handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on recovery.
- Access to Top Resources: We work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists to build a strong case in your favor.
- Support Throughout the Process: We’re here to guide you every step of the way, keeping you informed and ensuring your voice is heard.
Don’t settle for less than what’s right. Call The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 today to schedule your free consultation. Let us be your strongest advocate and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
You deserve trusted legal advice. Contact our car accident lawyers now for a free evaluation — no strings attached.
What Our Clients Say About Us
While many personal injury lawyers may accept your case and build a legal defense, none will champion your cause as fiercely as we do. Our California rideshare accident attorneys are exceptionally well-equipped to create a flawless claim, as affirmed by our previous clients:
“They were very nice and helpful. I felt they were there for me.” – Diana C.
Frequently Asked Questions
Accidents may be upsetting and complicated, leaving everyone involved with questions about their rights, obligations, and legal alternatives. Understanding the aftermath of an accident is critical for safeguarding your rights and getting proper compensation, regardless of whether you are the driver, passenger, or pedestrian.
If you have further questions, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about road accidents.
- Everyone Should Be Aware of This Potential Cause of Injury in a Rideshare Vehicle
- Types of Evidence To Prove a Drugged Driving Car Accident
- Who is Liable for a Nighttime Pedestrian Accident?
- Can I File a Claim if My Passenger’s Actions Lead to a Car Accident?
References
Auto Insurance Requirements – California DMV. (n.d.). California DMV. Retrieved June 12, 2025, from https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-registration/insurance-requirements/
California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1. (n.d.). California Legislative Information. https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CCP§ionNum=335.1
comparative negligence | Wex | US Law | LII / Legal Information Institute. (n.d.). Law.Cornell.Edu. Retrieved June 12, 2025, from https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/comparative_negligence
Insurance for Rideshare and Delivery Drivers. (n.d.). Uber. Retrieved June 12, 2025, from https://www.uber.com/us/en/drive/insurance/
